Only a small percentage of people achieve the early retirement part of the FIRE equation. The average reported retirement age was 61 in 2022—still far later than most FIRE goals. While everyone else works until they're 60s, FIRE followers are gaming the system to escape decades earlier.

At a 75% savings rate, it would take less than 10 years of work to accumulate 25 times the average annual living expenses suggested by the 4% safe withdrawal rule. Compare that to 40+ years of traditional employment.

48% of retirees retired earlier than planned, but most weren't prepared. FIRE followers plan their escape route with mathematical precision—saving 50% to 70% (or more) of their income instead of hoping for the best.

The average retirement age is 62 for Americans, but Gen Zers hope to retire at age 54, earlier than any generation. FIRE followers are already retiring in their 30s and 40s while others are just getting started.

People are working longer than ever, but FIRE followers found the cheat code: save 25 times your annual expenses and you're done.